A former CEO of a popular burger chain is facing serious allegations that could lead to significant consequences. Andrew Wiederhorn, who once led Fat Brands, is under federal indictment for gun and fraud charges. Recently, an ex-federal prosecutor claimed that Wiederhorn spread damaging information about him, which allegedly influenced his dismissal from the U.S. Attorney’s office.
Adam Schleifer, the former assistant U.S. attorney in Los Angeles, filed a complaint stating that his firing was unlawful. He argues that it was partly due to his work prosecuting Wiederhorn. In his filing with the Merit Systems Protection Board, Schleifer pointed to a March email he received, which he claims was sent on behalf of President Trump, notifying him of his termination.
Schleifer asserts that his dismissal was influenced by political motivations, particularly because he had previously criticized Trump. He believes that his prosecution of Wiederhorn, a supporter of the former president, led to his removal. Notably, his firing came shortly after a right-wing activist publicly called for it, which he highlighted in his complaint.
Wiederhorn has denied any wrongdoing related to the criminal charges against him, which include a scheme involving a $47 million loan and illegal firearm possession. His legal team has not commented on Schleifer’s allegations. The indictment against Wiederhorn, announced last May, alleges that he engaged in a fraudulent loan scheme and possessed a firearm despite a prior felony conviction.
In his complaint, Schleifer claims that Wiederhorn and his defense team orchestrated a campaign to undermine his credibility, including a tabloid article attacking his work. He also mentioned a meeting where Wiederhorn’s counsel suggested that Schleifer’s actions were biased due to his political beliefs.
The ongoing legal battle raises questions about the intersection of politics and the justice system. As the case unfolds, it will be interesting to see how it impacts both Wiederhorn and Schleifer, as well as the broader implications for federal prosecutors and their independence. Wiederhorn’s trial for securities fraud is set for later this year, while his firearms case is scheduled for January 2026.